Bellin donates ultrasound machine to NEW Zoo

09/19/2007

SUAMICO — Through the donation of an ultrasound machine, Bellin Health has expanded its community health care services to residents it never served before – inhabitants at the NEW Zoo.

Jeff Monck, team facilitator for Bellin’s ultrasound/vascular department, was part of a recent field trip to the NEW Zoo, 4378 Reforestation Road, Suamico, and noticed the zoo’s hospital facility.

“Naturally, I was curious as to what medical equipment a zoo hospital would have, so I poked my head in to see,” he said. “I noticed right away that they didn’t have an ultrasound machine.”

Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique used to visualize muscles, tendons and internal organs with real time images. It’s used to visualize a fetus during prenatal care.

Monck’s department recently purchased new ultrasound machines with enhanced capabilities for Bellin and was contemplating what to do with an older model ultrasound machine.

“I figured we’d see if the zoo had use for our older equipment,” Monck said. “It turns out they did. Ultrasound equipment was an item on their wish list of sorts, so the donation offered a practical and meaningful way for us to keep this machinery in use.”

The gesture was much appreciated, said Neil Anderson, zoo director.

“The donation of this equipment allows us to significantly upgrade the level of care for our animal collection,” he said. “What we are going to be able to do diagnostically will be absolutely amazing. The Zoo is eternally grateful to Bellin for this wonderful contribution.”

Dr. Tracey Gilbert of Brown County Veterinary Hospital and Cat Care Clinic, a consulting veterinarian for the zoo, echoed those thoughts.

“Our mission is to provide the best possible care for our animals,” she said. “Very few zoos our size have ultrasound capability, especially of this quality. We will be able to diagnose more quickly and accurately organ problems such as liver and kidney disease, cancer and other conditions. The new unit will help with pregnancy diagnosis and monitoring, as well.

“This generous donation from Bellin Hospital will help ensure that the animals at the NEW Zoo continue to receive state-of-the-art veterinary care,” Gilbert said.

The donation reflects Bellin’s philosophy of being a good neighbor, said Jeff Hoeksema, Bellin imaging services team leader.

“As an active partner in the Greater Green Bay community, Bellin is always seeking opportunities to directly engage community members, causes, service organizations and other businesses for the greater good of the community,” he said. “It’s our goal to use these opportunities to help promote a healthful, nurturing environment for all. In this case, that includes our furry, feathered and scale-skinned friends at the NEW Zoo.”